Rules and Regulations

Visitors are encouraged to enjoy the activities offered on the Refuge while in observance of these rules. Their creation is intended to protect wildlife, wildlife habitat and the safety of our visitors and staff. The Refuge is also subject to Federal, State, and local laws and regulations. Be safe and have fun!

Visiting Hours:The Refuge is open daily from 1/2 hour before sunrise to 1/2 hour after sunset.

Access and Parking: Motor vehicles are permitted on improved Refuge roads only. Roads marked as "Closed" or "Authorized Vehicles Only" are closed to the public. If the gate at the entrance parking area is shut, the road is closed to vehicular traffic, but is open to walk-in access unless otherwise posted. Parking is permitted in designated parking areas only. Overnight RV parking is prohibited. Note that the condition and closure of public roads are subject to seasonal and weather-related factors.

ATVs and Snowmobiles: ATVs and snowmobiles may not be used on any portion of the Refuge.

Hunting and Fishing:Both are prohibited on the Refuge.

Hiking: Hiking and walking are only allowed on established roads open to vehicular traffic and designated trails. Roads marked as "Closed" or "Authorized Vehicles Only" are closed to the public. If the gate at the entrance parking area is shut, the road is closed to vehicular traffic, but is open to walk-in access unless otherwise posted.

Boating: The use of boats and canoes is not allowed on the Refuge.

Bicycling: Bicycling is permitted on the Refuge, but is restricted to established roads open to vehicular traffic. Roads marked as "Closed" or "Authorized Vehicles Only" are closed to the public. Bicycles are prohibited on hiking trails.

Camping: Camping is prohibited anywhere on the Refuge All visitors must leave the Refuge at the end of each day.

Horseback Riding: Horseback riding is prohibited on the Refuge.

Fires: No fires of any type are permitted within the Refuge.

Littering: Littering is prohibited on the Refuge. Please carry out all trash from the Refuge.

Picnicking: There are no public picnic facilities located on the Refuge.

Firearms: Persons possessing, transporting, or carrying firearms on National Wildlife Refuge System lands must comply with all provisions of State and local law. Persons may only use (discharge) firearms in accordance with refuge regulations (50 CFR 27.42 and specific refuge regulations in 50 CFR Part 32). Discharge of a firearm for any reason other than the legal taking of game animals is prohibited.

Pets: All pets must be leashed.

Disturbance of Animal or Plant Life: Molesting, injuring, disturbing, or destroying any animal or plant, except properly taken fish or game in season, is prohibited.

Disturbance of Artifacts and Historic Items: Artifacts and historic items are protected on Refuge lands by Federal law. It is unlawful to search for or remove these objects from Refuge lands.

Shed Hunting: Shed hunting is not permitted on any portion of the Refuge.

Personal Conduct: Disorderly conduct is forbidden at all times. Anyone who is obviously intoxicated will not be allowed to remain on the Refuge. Possession of controlled substances is illegal.

If you have any questions about Rules & Regulations or Law Enforcement on the Refuge, please feel free to stop by Headquarters, call our Refuge staff at 970-723-8202 or send an email to: arapaho@fws.gov .